Youth and Artificial Intelligence

Artificial Intelligence (A.I.) is increasingly shaping the lives of young people, influencing how they learn, work, and interact. From personalised learning tools to automated recruitment systems, A.I. offers new opportunities for skills development, creativity, and innovation.

At the same time, A.I. presents important challenges. Young people face risks related to data privacy, misinformation, and algorithmic bias, as well as concerns about over-reliance on technology and its impact on critical thinking and well-being. In the labour market, A.I. is transforming job opportunities, creating demand for new digital skills while also raising concerns about job displacement.

Youth engagement in A.I. related discussions and policymaking remains limited, despite its growing impact on their future. Strengthening digital literacy, critical thinking, and ethical awareness is essential to ensure that young people can both benefit from and actively shape the development of A.I.

Recent initiatives highlight the growing importance of accessible A.I. tools for young people. In 2026, Malta launched a national programme called ‘AI for All’ (AI għal Kulħadd) programme, which offers citizens and residents aged 14 and over a free one-year subscription to premium A.I. tools (such as ChatGPT Plus or Microsoft Copilot) upon completion of a short A.I. literacy course. This initiative aims to increase digital skills and ensure that young people are equipped to engage with A.I. responsibly and effectively.

Agenzija Żgħażagħ contributes to addressing these developments by integrating digital awareness and critical thinking into its youth work practices. Through programmes, training initiatives, and youth engagement activities, the agency supports young people in understanding emerging technologies such as A.I., encouraging responsible use while empowering them to actively participate in shaping a digital society.

As part of its Summer Life Skills Lab programme, Aġenzija Żgħażagħ offers the A.I. Club, which provides young people with a safe and creative space to explore artificial intelligence technologies, experiment with digital tools, and reflect on how technology may shape their future. Through hands-on activities and guided learning experiences, participants develop digital literacy, critical thinking skills, and a greater awareness of the opportunities and ethical considerations associated with A.I.

Youth work and education systems play a key role in supporting young people to navigate A.I. responsibly, empowering them to become informed users, creators, and decision-makers in an increasingly digital world.

If you are interested to know more, kindly visit Youth Wiki – Europe’s Encyclopedia of National Youth Policies.